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Two of the favourites for relegation meet at the DW Stadium, desperate to get their season off on a positive footing.

Having narrowly avoided the drop last term, Roberto Martinez handed Wigan a major boost by rejecting the advances of Aston Villa to remain at the DW Stadium.

However, the Spaniard has had to deal with the departure of midfielder Charles N'Zogbia to Aston Villa in a £7.5 million deal, while James McCarthy has been attracting a host of admirers following an assured debut season in the Premier League. The Scot is doubtful for this match, though, after sustaining an ankle injury in pre-season against Villarreal.

Martinez has been able to complete the permanent signing of Ali Al Habsi from Bolton, after some superb displays on loan last term, and has also captured midfielder David Jones on a free transfer.

Norwich, who are back in the top flight after two successive promotions, have signed smartly this summer, bringing in Everton's James Vaughan, Milwall's Steve Morison and Manchester United defender Ritchie De Laet. However, Vaughan will miss this opening match as he is struggling with a knee injury.

Andrew Crofts (ankle) and full-back Russell Martin (calf) will be fit. Striker James Vaughan, signed from Everton, and centre-back Elliott Ward are sidelined after picking up minor knee injuries during pre-season training in Germany.

Anthony Pilkington could be included in the squad as the former Huddersfield winger continues his rehabilitation from a serious ankle injury.

Wigan, meanwhile look set to be without midfielder James McCarthy. The Republic of Ireland international twisted his ankle in last week's pre-season friendly against Villarreal and he has been given only a 10 per cent chance of being involved.

Striker Hugo Rodallega is available after returning late to pre-season training following his involvement with Colombia in the Copa America but defender Antolin Alcaraz, who reached the final with Paraguay, will be given more time to regain full fitness.

Last season: N/A

Betting tip: Wigan were blown away by Blackpool on the opening day last season, and with Norwich riding the crest of a wave, odds of 4-1 on the visitors looks tempting.